Investigating a new drug target for chronic pain relief

Pharmacological validation of adenylyl cyclase 1 as a drug target for chronic pain

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-10994175

This study is looking for new ways to help people with chronic pain by testing a special protein that could lead to better treatments without the risk of addiction. Researchers are trying out different small molecules to see if they can safely reduce pain and improve the lives of those who suffer from it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994175 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on finding new treatments for chronic pain by targeting adenylyl cyclase type 1 (AC1), a protein that has shown promise in preclinical studies. Researchers are exploring the effects of small molecule inhibitors on AC1, which have demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammatory and neuropathic pain in animal models. By screening a chemical library, they aim to develop novel AC1 inhibitors that could provide effective pain relief without the risk of drug dependence. The study involves optimizing these compounds to enhance their effectiveness and safety for potential future use in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, particularly those who have not found relief from existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or those who have conditions unrelated to pain management may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new medications that provide effective relief from chronic pain without the risk of addiction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting AC1 for pain relief, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.